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An adult client newly diagnosed with left ventricular dysfunction is admitted to the hospital with fine rales and wheezing. When assessing this client, which additional finding Is the nurse likely to obtain?

A. Jugular vein distension
B. Fatigue
C. Hepatomegaly
D. Lower extremity edema

User Isherwood
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Final answer:

An adult client with left ventricular dysfunction is likely to exhibit jugular vein distension due to increased venous pressure, alongside other signs such as fatigue, hepatomegaly, and lower extremity edema.

Step-by-step explanation:

An adult client with newly diagnosed left ventricular dysfunction, exhibiting fine rales and wheezing, is also likely to present additional signs consistent with fluid congestion due to impairment of the heart's pumping ability. One such sign is jugular vein distension (JVD), which occurs as a result of increased pressure in the venous system due to the heart's reduced ability to pump blood efficiently. Other findings in patients with left ventricular dysfunction may include fatigue, hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), and lower extremity edema. Pulmonary edema, a condition characterized by excess fluid in the air sacs of the lungs, is a common complication of left ventricular dysfunction and is associated with symptoms such as difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, chest pain.

User Ahmad Anis
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